Dearborn will acquire a Lenco MedCat MedEvac Tactical Emergency Medical Support Emergency Response Vehicle that can transport up to four patients and can respond to hostile and dangerous situations. It will replace a 1983 ERV and will be partially funded by Community Development Block Grant funds.
By SUE SUCHYTA
Times-Herald Newspapers
DEARBORN – The City Council approved the purchase of a new emergency response medical support vehicle, capable of reacting to dangerous and hostile environments at its Aug. 23 meeting.
The vehicle, a Lenco MedCat MedEvac Tactical Emergency Support Emergency Response Vehicle will replace a 1983 Dodge vehicle that has surpassed its expected service life and is due for replacement.
Community Development Block Grant funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, which may be used for social services, will provide $300,000 of the $993,641 purchase price, with the balance coming from the fleet Fund Fire Department capital equipment budget.
The new ERV is described as the most versatile multi-purpose response and rescue vehicle on the market and can treat and transport up to four patients.
It is designed to protect victims and rescuers during an active shooter situation, and it can traverse terrain that conventional ambulances cannot, including flood waters. It is designed to respond to emergency situations where the quick assessment of victims is essential.
The vehicle, which is expected to have a 20-year life, is anticipated to be a significant asset to the city.